Tag: James Tynion IV

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“There is a feeling you get at the beginning of an adventure…”

Thus begins DC’s epic summer event, Metal. The prelude, Dark Days: The Forge, is the perfect introduction, and sets the stage for the magnitude of what is to come.

Comics publishers often overuse the term “all-star” in their books, but in this case, it fits perfectly. DC has recruited its top talent, including writers Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV, for this one-shot story. However, the talent doesn’t stop there, as the book also packs superstar artists Jim Lee, John Romita Jr. and Andy Kubert. Even the cast is epic, featuring Batman, Superman, Green Lantern, Hawkman, Aquaman, Mister Miracle – even the Outsiders.

Dark Days: The Forge #1 Will Keep You Coming Back For More

The issue gives just enough intrigue to keep you turning the pages with anticipation. Batman has discovered a mysterious substance in the Earth’s metal. Unfortunately, no wants this information to come to light, including the Guardians of the Universe and the Immortal Men.

As Snyder’s and Tynion’s story unfolds – from the depths of the ocean to the Batcave on the moon – the mystery deepens. What is this mysterious metal? Where did it come from, and why is Batman obsessed with it now? The artwork is stunning and dramatic, exactly what’s you’d expect from this superstar team. If that wasn’t enough to keep you coming back for more, check out the final page. This final page is beautifully rendered by Lee and will seal the deal for this event.

That feeling you get at the beginning of an adventure? It’s glee. Pure glee for what’s to come.

Dark Days: The Forge #1, DC Comics, Released June 14, 2017, Written by Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV; Pencils by Andy Kubert, Jim Lee and John Romita Jr.; Inks by Scott Williams, Klaus Janson and Danny Miki; Colors by Alex Sinclair and Jeremiah Skipper; Letters by Steve Wands; $4.99.

This week’s New Comic Book Day Reviews brings us a quartet of books that we feel comic reader should check out. From Dark Horse we’ve got Black Hammer #9, Valiant brings us their next big story arc with Rapture #1, we take a trip with Peter Quill in Marvel’s Star-Lord Annual #1 and DC brings us home with Detective Comics #957.

As a reminder these are only a few of the awesome comics that came out this week. Check out our other blog articles so see our thoughts on other books. Be sure to comment or share our post on Facebook or Twitter if you like our articles!

SPOILER ALERT — We try to keep from posting spoilers, but one may sneak through to our reviews now and again. Read with caution, true believers.

Black Hammer has to be one of the most exciting “Golden Age” superhero tales in a long time. As it slowly unraveling why everyone is stuck at Black Hammer Farms. Black Hammer #9 delves into how Talky-Walky and Colonel Weird met.

Distress signals in space never seem to be a good thing, unless it’s meeting your best friend. It’s hard to say that this issue of Black Hammer was a fun read. However, that’s mainly due to what’s been happening throughout the series. It was great to see how Talky-Walky and Colonel Weird met.

Jeff Lemire knows how to craft a solid story and this entry clearly shows his fondness to the golden age of comic adventures.[Martin M. at TFAW.com]

That was a fun ride. I always enjoy annuals for the small break it typically gives us from the norm. Chip Zdarsky’s Star-Lord Annual #1 is no exception.

In classic Western fashion, our hero finds himself in a small town run by bullies. And we all know Star-Lord isn’t a huge fan of bullies. So what does he do? Joins the Sheriff to take him and his gang down. There’s more to it than that, but I don’t want to spoil it. Star-Lord Annual #1 is a fun ride. While I wouldn’t mind more Space-Westerns with Marvel Characters. The story here ends well and fits into where we are in the comics right now. No, this isn’t any weird Secret Empire tie-in or anything like that. I will say that it does, tie into events that have transpired and this issue did leave me with a sad, but hopeful feeling. Much like great westerns do. [Martin M. at TFAW.com]

If you’re like me and haven’t read a lot of the new Valiant books, a crossover story like Rapture #1 seems a bit daunting. While I enjoy X-O Manowar, I’m not that familiar with the other fascinating characters in Valiant’s stable. However, Rapture #1 by Matt Kindt is an excellent jumping on point for new readers while still offering something that longtime Valiant readers can sink their teeth into.

Rapture #1 focuses on four characters: Tama, Ninjak, Punk Mambo and Shadowman. Kindt gives each character a unique voice and the reason these characters come together is compelling. It’s definitely made want to check out some more stories featuring Shadowman and Punk Mambo.

Artist CAFU knocks it out of the park, making each location feel unique. You’ll feel the stench of death oozing out of the Deadside.

Rapture #1 is another excellent Valiant comic. This company continues to churn out hit after hit. If you’ve yet to get onboard with Valiant, Rapture #1 is your chance to do so. [Josh P. at TFAW.com]

Detective Comics #957 is something you don’t often see in today’s comic books: a standalone story. James Tynion IV presents us with a brief interlude between arcs with “The Wrath of Spoiler,” a story that follows Spoiler (obviously).

The story that Tynion IV tells here is one that is often talked about among creators: Does just the mere presence of Batman bring about crime? Would these villains exist if they didn’t have Batman to challenge them? Spoiler seeks to answer that question as she fights against an updated Wrath and Scorn, a team of villains who are looking to make a name for themselves.

The art by Carmen Carnero is refreshingly old-school in all the best ways and is some of the best art I think we’ve seen in Detective Comics yet.

The payoff for this story won’t happen for a few months, but the surprise reveal of a forgotten Batman villain in the last few panels will have the community talking. Don’t miss this issue! [Josh P. at TFAW.com]

It’s review time for NCBD. This week we’re looking at an interdimensional team-up, IDW’s Deviation of Orphan Black and finding out where the Inhumans go from here. As always there are only a couple of books to come out this week. Make sure to check out our other blog articles to see our thoughts on other books. Be sure to comment or share our post on Facebook or Twitter if you like our articles!

SPOILER ALERT — We try to keep from posting spoilers, but one may sneak through to our reviews now and again. Read with caution, true believers.

Green Lantern and Space Ghost is a concept that flows together so well that it’s surprising a crossover hasn’t been attempted before this comic. Both heroes are space cops, both wield weapons of great power, and both are continually motivated to do the right thing. In Green Lantern / Space Ghost #1 from DC, both heroes meet for the first time in a story that is out of this world.

Written by James Tynion IV and Christopher Sebela, the story follows the familiar tropes of any superhero team-up: The heroes meet, fight, resolve their differences, and team up to stop a larger enemy. While classic GL and Space Ghost villains like Zorak and Larfleeze make brief appearances, the plot and action revolves around completely new characters and villains created just for this story. The artwork by Ariel Olivetti is outstanding, bringing the action on the page to life in stunning detail.

While the main story is an all-ages affair, the back-up story featuring Ruff N’ Reddy skews slightly more adult in its tone, so parents buying the book for their children will want to keep that in mind.

If you’ve grown up with both Green Lantern and Space Ghost, this team-up is a dream come true and one that longtime fans will appreciate. If you’re new to these characters, Green Lantern / Space Ghost #1 serves as a great introduction to them. No matter which group you fall into, this story is a blast to read. [Josh P. at TFAW.com]

“Hey! You got Orphan Black in my Butterfly Effect.” Or is it the other way around? Orphan Black: Deviations #1 asks the question: What would happen if Sarah had saved Beth, instead of watching her die?

Set in the very same moment the show kicks off, Deviations will be a familiar tale for show watchers, but with distinct differences. On the show, Sarah witnesses the death of a woman who looks just like her, which sends her down a path of self-discovery; the comic sends her down the path of having saved her life instead. Writer Heli Kennedy takes on the difficult task of re-writing a story the fans are familiar with while making it fresh and unpredictable. As it turns out, Beth being alive changes quite a bit in this award-winning series, keeping favorite moments intact but with small tweaks and quirks. Artist Wayne Nichols does a phenomenal job of keeping the clones distinct without the benefit of actress Tatiana Maslany’s mannerisms and vocal shifts. Drawing directly from the color palette and costume design of the show, the art will instantly transport you back to season 1, with some new tricks.

This series is set at a much faster pace than the show, which will please the familiar but may alienate those new to the series. What’s old is new again, and nobody is safe in this alternate timeline tale. Maybe even a few new clones will show up… [Adam B. at TFAW.com]

If we’re being honest, I’ve never been a fan of the Inhumans. I know of them, I even like some of them, but as a group who was attempting to displace the X-Men? No thank you. Despite all of Marvel’s efforts to get me to read them, I simply refused. Now with Marvel attempting to make the Inhumans their own unique group once again and not a replacement for mutants, I figured there was no better time to give the group a try than with Inhumans Prime #1.

Wow, I wish I checked out the Inhumans a lot sooner.

Inhumans Prime #1 does an excellent job of introducing the reader to a wide array of Inhumans and their powers. The book focuses on familiar Inhumans, such as Black Bolt and Ms. Marvel, and new ones such as The Reader. While new readers may find themselves a bit lost in the events that transpire in this book (I had to look up a few things during my read), writer Al Ewing does an excellent job positioning the Inhumans up for a new status quo. I loved every page of it.

With a big reveal at the end, the book is the perfect set-up to Marvel’s newest slate of Inhumans titles, including Royals and Black Bolt. I know I’ll definitely be adding all Inhumans titles to my pull list ASAP, as well as checking out past stories like the Karnak TPB. If you’re an Inhumans fan, this is a must-read book, and if you’re like me and have been on the fence about the Inhumans for awhile, I strongly encourage you to check this book out. [Josh P. at TFAW.com]

Every week we review a select few comics for New Comic Book Day. There are so many that come out each week it’s hard to choose. This week we take a gander at Batwoman, Punisher and Daredevil. Check out our other blog articles so see our thoughts on other books. Be sure to comment or share our post on Facebook or Twitter if you like our articles!

SPOILER ALERT — We try to keep from posting spoilers, but one may sneak through to our reviews now and again. Read with caution, true believers.

Finally, Batwoman is back in her own solo comic! I’ve immensely enjoyed James Tynion IV’s work with Batwoman and the voice he has given her in Detective Comics, but I’ve longed for Kate Kane to be the star of the show instead of a member of an ensemble. Batwoman #1 is everything I hoped a Batwoman comic would be and more.

It fully fleshes out Batwoman, giving her a base of operations, a method of transportation, and even her own Pennyworth butler. However, the writing duo of Marguerite Bennett and James Tynion IV have made sure Batwoman isn’t just a female Batman. Part of that is due to her unique voice and globe-spanning mission while the remaining part is due to her unique past that the issue starts to touch on. There are many layers to Kate Kane, and the issue starts to peel them back one-by-one. Complementing the story is the beautiful art by Steve Epting.

Not only is the issue a great jumping on point for new fans, but it also serves as an excellent book for longtime Batwoman readers. Batwoman #1 is highly recommended and is one series to keep an eye on in the future.

Punisher’s one-man war on Condor continues in Punisher #10. Becky Cloonan continues to delight as she writes a Frank Castle that is tough-as-nails, resourceful, and leaves a trail of bodies in his wake. This comic has never been shy about showing violence, but what Punisher does with a bear trap takes this comic to a whole new level. Punisher #10 lives up to its parental advisory notice.

As the story starts racing to its conclusion, this is turning into one Punisher tale you don’t want to miss. Due to the unfortunate passing of Steve Dillon, artist Matt Horak fills in for art duties. He captures Dillon’s style almost perfectly and allows the book to fit in stylistically with the previous issues. If you’ve yet to check out this series, you’ll want to make some room on your pull list as it’s worth reading. Punisher #10 is an excellent read and shows that Marvel can still pump out mature titles that are on par with the rest of the industry.

One of the burning questions since the beginning of Charles Soule’s Daredevil run has been “How did Matt get his secret identity back?” After over a year, Charles Soule is finally ready to answer that question. Daredevil #17 was told entirely by flashbacks and bridged the previous series to the current one, and Daredevil #18 picks up right where #17 left off.

Soule introduces readers to The Purple Man, who promptly gives us a display of his powers in a downright horrifying fashion. In fact, the story ends up being more about him and his offspring than about Daredevil. The twist at the end brings about more questions, and we’ll see more than a few fan theories as a result of this issue. I’m excited to see how Charles Soule ties it all together.

If you’ve yet to check out Charles Soule’s Daredevil, #17 and #18 are a fantastic place to start. I know I’m planning on checking out the previous issues of this series; if the writing is as good as this issue, I’m in for a treat.

New Comic Book Day is here! This week we take on Zombies, Time-Travel, get interrupted during a vacation, and build a new team. Remember, these are only a few comics that came out this week. Check out our other blog articles so see our thoughts on other books. Be sure to comment or share our post on Facebook or Twitter if you like our articles!

SPOILER ALERT — We try to keep from posting spoilers, but one may sneak through to our reviews now and again. Read with caution, true believers.

Man, for 25¢ this was a non-stop pulse-pounding issue. The largest group of Walkers they’ve ever encountered is headed right toward their town. Like everything in this world, the only thing they can do is fight. They send off a few of the crew on horseback to hopefully lead the heard away. While others in the town try a fend off the rest.

I’ve been reading The Walking Dead on and off for about 5 years now. Full disclosure this is the first issue in a while for me, and it reminded me why I got hooked on this series in the first place. Even though it’s a story, Robert Kirkman has always been able to make this feel real. I know these people and what they’re going through. I don’t want to say goodbye to them anytime soon. Let’s hope the herd isn’t too much for them. [Martin M. at TFAW.com]

While Batman has always had one of the most extensive networks of supporting characters and partners, he’s always operated like a lone wolf, often to his detriment. Realizing this, Batman is now embracing the importance of operating and training a team of heroes to better protect Gotham City. Lead by Batwoman, the two of them assemble of a team of fan-favorite characters, Red Robin, Spoiler, Orphan, and Clayface, to revolutionize the concept of the Bat-Family.

James Tynion IV kicks off this series with an explosive punch that shakes an already new team to the core. The depth in which he develops every character in the group in just 7 issues is not only impressive but easily sets this series up as being one of the most important Batman books in years. Eddy Barrows art is certainly to thank for how impactful this is as well. Whether it’s giant cityscape action scenes or fights in a room, this is easily one of the best-looking books on the shelves for superheroes.

Monsters, Time Travel, the 80’s? Why aren’t you reading this book? Holy crap. After the events of the first 10 issues our heroes find themselves hoping they’re back in their own time, on their own planet. It looks to be the case, until Mac finds someone who doesn’t speak any language I’ve seen before, and a beast that’s not of our world.

If you’ve been urging for Season 2 of Stranger Things, Paper Girls is a great way to spend that in-between seasons time. Brian K Vaughan, Cliff Change, and Matt Wilson have done a tremendous job with this series thus far and Issue 11 is no exception. I can’t wait to see where this goes from here. [Martin M. at TFAW.com]

A tie-in to the Monsters Unleashed event currently happening, The team of young X-Men decide to take a vacation to New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras. While the team goes to see the sights, Wolverine meets up with her old partner Gambit in the swamps. What starts as a team-up investigation, quickly turns into an all-out monster battle, with New Orleans caught in the middle of it.

While a tie-in, Jeremy Whitley weaves a fun, stand-alone adventure. Even if this weren’t part of a bigger story, this issue could easily stand up as one of the classic weird X-Men books the series is known for featuring from time to time. Carlo Barberi and Ron Lim bring to life all the spectacle of a monster movie, but all the dynamic shots of a superhero comic.

Whether or not you’re picking up the main Monsters Unleashed title, All-New X-Men #1.MU is worth your time. [Mikey N. at TFAW.com]

A lot of amazing books have come out in 2016. With Marvel revitalizing their line, DC’s Rebirth, to so many independent and creator-owned books dominating the stands, 2016 has certainly been a comic book year to remember.

With that in mind, the staff at TFAW took a look at sales numbers, fan buzz, and our personal favorites of the year to create a list of the 25 best comics of the year. Now we want you, our awesome customers, to vote on this list to decide definitively what the best books of 2016 are.

Voting will take place from Jan 1st through Jan 31st, so head on over to our Facebook page and cast your vote. Let your voices be heard and recognize all these amazing creators and publishers for all their hard work.

Superman Vol. 01 Son of Superman By: Peter J. Tomasi, Doug Mahnke, Patrick Gleason
The New 52 Superman is dead, but hiding among us for years was the original Big Blue. Now, a world without a Superman is in desperate need for Clark to leave the good life on the farm with Lois raising their son. This story simultaneously brings Superman back to formula, but also takes him in a direction he’s never really been before.

Bitch Planet Vol. 2: President Bitch By: Kelly Sue DeConnick, Valentine De Landro, Taki Soma
Powerful and gut-wrenching, Bitch Planet continues to explore themes of patriarchy and non-compliance. A must read for SJWs, feminists, and people who truly appreciate comics as an artistic medium.

Wonder Woman TPB Vol. 01 The Lies By: Greg Rucka, Liam Sharp, Matthew ClarkWonder Woman has been interpreted in many ways over her 75 year existence. Instead of trying to hide this, Greg Rucka’s approach is to embrace this to try and get to the real heart of who Wonder Woman is. Not just a great jumping on point for new readers, but a definitive take on the character that will hold true for years to come.

Black Hammer Vol 1: Secret Origins By: Jeff Lemire, Dean Ormston, Dave StewartBlack Hammer is another in a long line of grand ideas by one of comics brightest stars, Jeff Lemire. This book has a unique take on superheroes and the art by Dean Ormston & Dave Stewart instantly ensnares the reader.

Rough Riders Vol. 1 By: Adam Glass, Pat Oliffe
History in the making! Teddy Roosevelt, Jack Johnson, Annie Oakley, Harry Houdini and Thomas Edison make up an American dream team engaged in an epic shadowy war! Monsters and Mayhem folks!

The Mighty Thor Vol 1: Thunder in Her Veins By: Jason Aaron, Russell Dauterman
Marvel is changing things up by casting Dr. Jane Foster as the new Thor. The goddess of thunder shines in this series as she comes to grips with heroism and her own mortality. Jason Aaron and Russell Dauterman are the perfect pairing. Also: Loki.

Divinity II By: Matt Kindt, Trevor Hairsine, Jelena Kevic Djurdjevic
After Abram came crashing home in Divinity vol 1. Spending his entire life in the depths of space, Divinity II tells the tale of Myshka. Still beliving in the Communist ideal. She intends to play a very real role in the return of Soviet glory

Old Man Logan Vol 1: Berserker By: Jeff Lemire, Andrea Sorrentino
What happens when an older, more gruff version of Wolverine comes to the main Marvel Universe? A whole lot of fighting. He’s on a mission to to prevent a terrible future from happening. Andrea Sorrentino’s art is breathtaking.

Detective Comics Vol. 01 Rise of the Batmen By: James Tynion IV, Eddy Barrows, Eber Ferreira, Alvaro Martinez, Raul Fernandez, Al Barrionuevo
Batman is notorious for being a lone wolf (bat?), but he’s always had his family behind him. Now it’s time to take the Bat-Family to the next level. Lead by Batwoman, Batman puts together a team of Red Robin, Orphan (Cassandra Cain), Spoiler, and Clayface to be ready for whatever threat comes Gotham’s way.

March Book 3 By: John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, Nate Powell
The third and final installment in civil rights activist John Lewis’ story in the battle for civil rights in the United States. 1963 was an incredibly turbulent time in America’s history, and John Lewis was not only in the middle of it, but a leader in getting us out of it, long before becoming a congressman. March will remind you there are real heroes in this world.

Paper Girls Vol. 2 By: Brian K. Vaughan, Cliff Chiang
Continuing where Vol. 1 left off, the misfit group of paper girls from 1988 find themselves transported to present day. Our main characters are forced to look at who they are, and who they may…or may not become. This superstar team continues to tell one of the craziest sci-fi stories currently on the shelves, while staying focused on the heart of any good story, the characters.

All New Wolverine Vol. 01 Four Sisters By: Tom Taylor, David Lopez, Bengal
With the death of Logan, clone daughter Laura Kinney (X-23) steps up to be Wolverine and the best she is at what she does. This book is bloody, emotional, hilarious, and beautiful. This is one of those unique books that can present adult subjects in a way that people of all ages can understand. Clone or not, All-New Wolverine definitely has soul.

Dept. H Vol. 1: Pressure By: Matt Kindt, Sharlene Kindt
Not your average murder mystery! An in depth(see what I did there) story taking place on a deep sea research station. Family, lies, secrets and creatures make for a spectacular, well-paced adventure.

Steven Universe & Crystal Gems Vol. 01 By: Josceline Fenton, Chrystin Garland, Kat Leyh
They are the Crystal Gems. They always save the day! If you think they can’t. Here is proof that they always find a way!

Monstress Vol. 1 By: Marjorie Liu, Sana Takeda
A fascinating look at an alternate 1900’s Asia where monsters of god-like power are normal. Witness the journey of one teenage girl struggling to survive while trying to tame her own MONSTER.

Black Panther Vol. 01 Nation Under Our Feet By: Ta-Nehisi Coates, Brian Stelfreeze
Wakanda under the microscope. On the brink of civil war, treason and terrorist attacks ensue in T’Challa’s homeland. Witness Black Panther fight to save his country from all fronts.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Vol. 01 By: Kyle Higgins, Jorge Corona, Goni Montes
“It’s Morphin Time!” This fantastic new series starts after the Green with Evil Saga. Takes us through a different path from the show, one that keeps it at the top of my reading every month. Perfect for fans new and old.

Saga Vol. 6 By: Brian K. Vaughan, Fiona Staples
Set three years after the end of Vol. 5, our story opens with Hazel in kindergarten. For a story that’s followed a family on the run through space since issue 1, Vol 6 shows them living a domestic and stationary life for the first time…and it doesn’t go too well for them. Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples continue to be a dominating power tag team.

Sheriff Of Babylon Vol. 01 Bang Bang Bang By: Tom King, Mitch Gerads, John Paul Leon
Currently known for his fantastic work on Batman, Tom King and Mitch Gerad’s The Sherriff of Babylon, is a suspenseful crime noir tale set in Bagdad circa 2003. King’s CIA experience in addition to Gerad’s life-like art style gives this series the accolades it deserves.

Beauty Vol. 01 By: Jason Hurley, Jeremy Haun
The first STD that people actually WANT! In this world, The “Beauty”, transforms your body into its most beautiful version. People are literally dying to get it but the public is unaware of the side effects. Detectives Vaughn and Foster are on the case.

Faith Vol. 01 Hollywood & Vine By: Jody Houser, Francis Portela, Jele Kevic-Djurdjevic
Starting off as a side character in Harbinger back in 2014, we were given a full ongoing series of Faith Herbert this year. Written by the wonderful Jody Houser. This is a series meant for Fan-boys/girls, as Faith herself is as much of a geek as we are.

Gotham Academy Vol. 03 Yearbook By: Brenden Fletcher, Moritat, Mingjue Helen Chen
Our favorite students go back after their adventures last year, telling tales before everything went to chaos. Gotham Academy is an all-ages series perfectly suited for those wanting to move to Gotham, but are not old enough to drive there.

Legend of Zelda Legendary Ed GN Vol. 01 Ocarina Time By: Akira Himekawa
Viz does it again. While this is a reprint, if you’ve never read the Manga adaptation of the celebrated N64 game Ocarina of Time, this is a perfect time. Collecting vol 1 and 2, You get the complete tale.

DON’T FORGET TO VOTE BY THE 31ST

Honorable Mentions

2016 had so many amazing titles that it was nearly impossible for us to narrow it down to 25. With that in mind, here are some honorable mentions of books that you should definitely check out. Odds are they made your own personal top 25.

Batman Vol. 1 I Am Gotham By: Tom King, David Finch
Gotham City has two new heroes, Gotham and Gotham Girl. With these super powered saviors doing what Batman can’t, is he really what Gotham City needs anymore?

Dark Knight: A True Batman Story By: Paul Dini, Eduardo Risso
Legendary Batman writer, Paul Dini, was beaten within an inch of his life. This autobiographical tale shows just how these iconic characters like Batman can get us through the darkest of times.

Serenity: No Power in the ‘Verse By: Chris Roberson, Georges Jeanty, Karl Story, Wes Dzioba, Dan Dos Santos
Set after the events of the previous series, Leaves on the Wind, No Power in the ‘Verse continues the tale of our favorite Browncoats

I Am a Hero Omnibus Volume 1 By: Kengo Hazawa
A slightly crazy artist, and one of the few people in Japan that actually owns a gun, is neck deep in the zombie apocalypse.

This week had some really strong new releases, and we wanted to highlight a few quality issues from this week’s new releases that could get lost in the shuffle. Check out our other New Comic Book Day blog articles so see our thoughts on other books. Be sure to comment or share our post on Facebook or Twitter if you like our articles!

SPOILER ALERT — We try to keep from posting spoilers, but one may sneak through to our reviews now and again. Read with caution, true believers.

Twist and Turns Ladies and Gentlemen! If you want them, the newest issue of New Suicide Squad has them. Harley delivers a whimsical yet informational recap of a seemingly pointless story. However, stick with it, it leads somewhere exciting.

This issue is rich with character development and the team sets us up for a whole new (possibly disastrous) plot. We also get to catch up with Amanda Waller and get a reminder that she is NOT TO BE TOYED WITH!

Tim Seeley delivers yet again with an issue that contains great dialogue for all and is fantastically displayed in the artwork by Juan Ferreya. [Sean W. at Milwaukie TFAW]

Amazing Spider-Man #9 From owning the biggest company with top notch technology to being known as the Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, Peter Parker has it all! Er, well almost… Unfortunately, all of Parker’s successes have led to villains tracking his every move. In the previous issues, we are introduced to the terrorist group, Zodiac. They steal Peter’s latest technology to hack into S.H.I.E.L.D.’s security system to find a super rare artifact. What are they going to do with this artifact? World domination of course!

This issue kicks off a new story arc in which Nick Fury and Spider-Man team up to find Zodiac’s leader, Scorpio. If you really liked Superior Spider-Man, I am positive you will love this storyline. I mean after all, the same team that brought you Superior Spider-Man is doing this series! [Darcey M. at Universal TFAW]

The Turtles are trying to get home, but they’re up to their shells in trouble. With the help of Batman and an old friend, it looks like they may finally have some luck on their side.

We are now four issues deep into the awesome Batman/TMNT crossover and James Tynion IV’s story is still as intriguing as ever. Freddie E Williams II and Jeremy Colwell are a fantastic pairing on art–I especially enjoy the decision to give the turtles different styled face masks.

As the story continues it gets more and more clear that each turtle shares traits with Batman. With Raphael being Batman’s darker boding personality. Donatello, his tech side. Leonardo, the martial artist, and Michelandelo….uh…maybe not all.

If you haven’t caught this from the beginning, go back and start. With DC/IDW doing second & third printings of the series you know it has to be good. [Martin M. at Milwaukie TFAW]

Picking up from an excellent cliffhanger from the previous issue, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. #3 jumps immediately into the action and keeps a solid pace, despite having to dump a lot of exposition on the readers who might not be caught up on Marvel’s Avengers Standoff crossover. Character sum up what’s been happening so far without too much stilted or forced dialogue. The chase for Whisperer is the best part of the book and (Spoiler warning if you haven’t read the first two parts of Standoff) Rick Jones uses things that don’t seem unrealistic for a character with his history to have access.

Peralta’s art is clear and dynamic, and Guggenheim fills the script with nods to both the current events of the Marvel Universe but nice bits of history as well. He’s been a part of a great team on the DC TV side as creator of Arrow and Flash and now doing and excellent adaption of Marvel’s most well-known network show. This one is highly recommended. [Dustin M. at Universal TFAW]

The X-Files Deviations is a wonderful parallel for fans of the first episode. In this new story, wrier Amy Chu recreates what started it all with one major twist — Dana Scully is partnered with Samantha Mulder. Samantha’s brother Fox was the one who went missing all those years ago and now the two must work together to find the truth that is out there.

The story moves along at a good pace and Casagrande’s style matches the tone of the story. For most fans, the relationship between Mulder and Scully is probably the most iconic thing about the show, but without it could the series thrive? This issue has me thinking yes. It’s a must read for any X-Files fan. Don’t forget about the other IDW Deviations one-shot issues starring the Ghostbusters, TMNT, Transformers & G.I. Joe. I’m really looking forward to those now that I’ve read this issue. [Travis S. at TFAW.com]

What did you think of these books? What should we review next week? Let us know below!